Updated at: 01-12-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

A good night’s sleep is vital for both physical and mental wellbeing, according to experts. You can get a better night’s sleep by improving your bedroom and bedding. When it comes to keeping your pillow in good condition, this includes cleaning and changing it when necessary.

There are numerous reasons why it is important to pay attention to the quality and hygiene of your pillow while you sleep. Allergies, rashes, and neck strain can all result from not changing your pillows on a regular basis. When it comes to pillow care and replacement, we’ll go through the basics.

How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows?

Pillows should be replaced every one to two years, according to the majority of specialists. When you follow these steps, you can rest easy knowing that the pillows you’re sleeping on are firm but also clean and free of allergies. To extend the life of the pillows you use, it is also vital to take proper care of them.

Your pillows will generally inform you when it’s time to change them. If your neck hurts in the morning or you can’t get into a good sleeping position, it’s possible that your pillow isn’t giving you the support you require. Pillows should be replaced when they begin to sag or develop lumps, much like a mattress. If you detect excessive yellowing or if your allergies are acting up at night, it may be time to invest in new pillows.

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Pillows made from certain materials last longer than others. Latex pillows can last up to three years, whilst polyester pillows can last just one year. The quality and density of the foams, as well as the type of material used, can all have an impact. Investing in a high-quality pillow will save you money in the long run because you won’t have to replace it as frequently.

Maintaining a clean pillow and pillowcase will extend the life of the pillow. Many pillows may be machine washed and dried, and pillowcases should be cleaned every time you wash your sheets.

Why it’s Important to Replace Pillows

Even though it may seem inconvenient, sleeping on old pillows can cause allergic responses, acne breakouts, and achy muscles.

It is possible for an old pillow to get infested with dust mites, fungi, mold and pet dander. A runny or stuffy nose, itchy skin, and irritated eyes are just some of the symptoms that some allergy sufferers may experience when they sleep near these allergens. You may be able to prevent pillow-related allergies by changing your pillows frequently or purchasing a pillow that is antibacterial and breathable.

Even drool or dandruff can soak into your pillows through pillow cases and cause yellow stains on the surface. For persons with sensitive skin, these compounds may cause acne breakouts or rashes. Pillowcases and pillows should be washed frequently with a moderate detergent to remove buildup, and new pillows can provide a clean slate that won’t irritate the skin.

Pillows are designed to provide neck and head support as you sleep, which helps to reduce muscular tension and maintain proper spinal alignment. If your pillow has sagged or flattened over time, you may wake up feeling sore or unrefreshed because it is unable to provide the support you need. A flattened pillow can also cause aching shoulders for those who sleep on their sides. Your pillow may need to be replaced if it isn’t providing the support it once did. You can only get so far by fluffing or folding it.

7 signs you should replace your pillow

As a general rule, these are some of the most typical indicators that your pillow needs to be changed out.

Changing your pillow is a good idea if:

  1. You are no longer supported by your head and shoulders.
  2. Tension headaches are caused by the absence of support for your head as you sleep.
  3. Your sleep is disrupted more frequently by allergies than usual.
  4. The pillow has a flat, unpleasant feel about it.
  5. You’ve lately made a shift in how you sleep.
  6. Re-fluffing your pillow is always necessary.
  7. The pillow is discolored or discolored in some other way.

Pillow tests you can do

To determine if your pillow needs to be replaced, there are three tests you can perform.

1. Folding it in half

If you fold your pillow in half and it doesn’t return to its former shape, you may require a new pillow. This is a test for hollowfibre and synthetic pillows, respectively.

2. Saddlebag test

A pillow is placed on your extended arm for this test. It’s time for a new pillow if your old one flops over your arm and doesn’t keep its shape (like a saddlebag). Hollowfibre and synthetic pillows are more suitable for this test.

3. Press test

Make a fist with your pillow by squeezing it. A new one may be necessary if it doesn’t return to its former shape or takes a long time to do so. Foam pillows are the focus of this experiment.

You may tell how old your pillows are by doing the above-mentioned indicators and tests.

Pillow Care and Replacement Guidelines

Pillows need to be cleaned and cared for regularly if they are to last as long as possible. When purchasing a pillow, pay attention to the materials it is made of and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure that it lasts a long time.

Here's how often you should replace everything in your bedroom

Why should you replace your pillow?

The most important reason to switch out your pillow is to have a better night’s sleep and avoid health problems in the morning. Sleep hygiene, allergies, neck support, and general sleep quality all depend on the quality of your pillow.

It’s more hygienic

Almost everyone’s pillow gets soiled at some point when they sleep on it. Dust mites, dead skin cells, and sweat are all absorbed into your pillow as you sleep.

It is possible to keep your pillow clean by using pillow cases, but they aren’t able to protect it from everything. Every night, even when you wash your pillow, it will still be impacted because you are sleeping on it.

Changing your pillow every few years can ensure that you have a better night’s rest!

Helps to reduce allergic symptoms

If dust mites are still in your pillow after thorough cleaning, it is possible that your allergies could become worse. It’s possible that you’ll sneeze more and wake up with itchy eyes and a runny nose at night because of this.

Your allergy symptoms will be kept at bay if you replace your pillow, since dust mites will not be able to build up.

Check out our selection of hypoallergenic pillows if you’re looking for a pillow that will help alleviate your allergies!

Gives you better support

Your pillow’s support will diminish with time.

You can improve your posture and spinal alignment with the help of pillows. A new pillow provides superior support for your neck and shoulders, preventing aches and pains.

Using too many pillows can also lead to discomfort, which we’ll discuss in more detail later.

What should I do with my old pillow?

If you care about the environment, it’s understandable that you wouldn’t want your pillow to be thrown away. You don’t have to get rid of your old pillow just because you don’t like it anymore.

Your pillow would be ideal for the many animals at shelters who are in desperate need of a new bed.

Leave natural fillings out for the birds

The stuffing in a pillow made of natural fibers can be left in your garden for the benefit of birds. This is due to the fact that the fillings can be used to construct nests.

Use microfibre or hollowfibre for insulation or as draft excluders

Instead of throwing away these fillers, which are excellent insulators, consider adding them to your insulation system. Making your own draft excluders for the winter is an option as well.

Make beds for your pets

You may use your old pillows to make a pet bed, just like you donate your pillows to animal shelters. Because the pillow retains some of your fragrance, it might be extremely beneficial for dogs while you’re away.

Use as padding for moving houses

Your old pillow stuffing can be used as extra padding in your moving boxes if, for example, you’re moving house and you wish to get some new pillows for the occasion. You’ll be able to use them again in the future for extra packing.

Make floor cushions

If you don’t want to give up on your pillows and want to repurpose them into something you can still use, this could be a good alternative for you. You may make your own floor cushion by adding a cover to your pillow or by adding more filling to your pillow. You could use it inside when you have visitors over or outside on a hot day.

How often should you wash pillows?

Pillows should be washed every three months, unless otherwise specified in the care instructions.

It’s critical to wash your pillows on a regular basis if you want to keep them clean and in good condition. As a result, you’ll always wake up feeling rested and rejuvenated, and your pillow will last longer.

So that they can continue to provide comfort and support for as long as possible, we’ll go over how often you should wash your pillows and how to properly maintain them.

Washing your pillows

You should follow the manufacturer’s care instructions when washing your pillows every three months.

However, if there are any spills or accidents, we recommend spot-cleaning your cushion.

If your pillow doesn’t come with a care guide, here are some things to keep an eye out for:

  • As far as I know, there is no way to clean memory foam pillows.
  • Instead of washing the pillow, use the washable cover.
  • Whether or not the contents, such as shredded materials, would clump together while being washed

Drying your pillows

You must properly dry your pillows before using them again. A damp pillow may not be as comfy or supportive as one that is dry. If the cushion is still damp, you run the risk of accidentally reshaping it. Your pillow’s stuffing will be equally spread if you thoroughly dry it.

It’s important to keep in mind that if the care instructions indicate to tumble dry your pillows, the stuffing may clump together. Only pillows with shredded or loose stuffing are affected by this problem. Throwing in a tennis ball in your tumble drier could help prevent this from happening.

Pillow maintenance

To extend the life of your pillow, there are a few simple steps you can take.

  • To keep the fillings loose, fluff it twice daily: in the morning and at night.
  • Invest in a pillow cover to safeguard it from any mishaps.
  • On a regular basis, clean them.
  • To ensure a good night’s rest, make sure your sheets are fully dry.

When should I change my pillowcase?

Pillowcases can be washed as often as necessary without affecting the pillow’s general comfort and support. Pillowcases that are kept clean are less likely to become soiled. To fit your pillows, they are comprised of fabrics such as nylon or linen and are meant to fit snugly.

When to wash your pillowcase

Every time you wash your bedding, switch out the pillowcases you’re using. In order to maintain a clean sleeping environment, this should be done every few weeks.

When to replace your pillowcase

Pillowcases should be discarded when they show evidence of general wear and tear, persistent stains, or if they still appear unclean after numerous washings.

How many pillows should I sleep with?

Having just one high-quality pillow for your preferred sleeping position will enough. Then there are those who prefer to sleep on two smaller pillows stacked together. In general, this isn’t a big deal, but if you don’t change your pillows frequently and they don’t provide much support, you may be injuring your neck and back by sleeping on them.

Pillows play a critical role in promoting proper spinal alignment and a pain-free resting position that doesn’t place undue stress on the neck.

For your sleeping posture, we’ve provided the number of pillows you should use:

  • Those who prefer to sleep on their side should choose between a single thick pillow or two thin ones.
  • One thin pillow for the person sleeping on their back.
  • One standard-depth pillow for a back-sleeper

To keep it clean and in good condition, you now know how often you should wash your pillow.

We have a wonderful assortment of pillows for you to choose from if you want to replace your present one. So that you can discover the ideal pillow for your needs right now, a wide range of fillings and firmness ratings are available.

Check out our top 10 best pillows for pros, cons, and customer reviews instead if you’re seeking for our pillow recommendations.

The Importance of Regularly Replacing Pillows

Making your bed is not the same as changing your pillow; there is a rationale for doing so. When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, a new pillow can make all the difference. For more than just a good night’s sleep, it’s a good idea to swap out your pillow on a regular basis to keep it clean and free of allergens. With a fresh pillow, you’ll get a better night’s sleep.

Prevents Allergies

Your mattress is a favored haven for dust mites. Warm, humid climates are ideal for these species’ acclimatization. As long as they don’t pose a threat to your health, they might nonetheless cause allergy symptoms like watery eyes and a runny nose to flare up. The more time you spend with them, the more severe these symptoms get. These signs, in turn, can lead to a sleepless night.

The fungus that is now growing on your old, used pillows may be even worse than dust mites. More than a million fungal spores can be found in an average pillow, according to new research. Even if you wash your pillow regularly, this fungal growth will ultimately occur. Replace your pillow if you want to get rid of these fungi. Your pillow cries out for replacement due to the presence of fungi and mites. Changing your pillows on a regular basis will help prevent this buildup of allergens.

Leads to Better Sleep

Sleeping on a bad pillow equals a bad night’s sleep. Sleeping comfortably requires that you have enough support for your head and neck as you sleep. When a cushion is new, it provides the most support, resulting in fewer aches and pains in the morning. You may find that switching to a different pillow relieves the discomfort and stiffness you’re experiencing in your neck and back. Your body will get the rest it needs and you’ll wake up feeling rejuvenated if you change your pillow on a regular basis.

Improves Personal Hygiene

Average people sweat 26 litres into their sheets each year, according to Business Insider. Pillows can be a terrible place to think about, let alone sleep on, what with all the perspiration, body oil, and hair on them. Washing pillows in the washing machine on a regular basis helps, but the natural buildup that occurs with daily use is practically hard to remove. Even if you can remove stains, washing your pillow will no longer help it last as long. Throw out the old, sweat-stained pillow and get a new one instead.

How often should you change your pillows? And the possible health consequences if you don't do it often enough |

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pillow lasts the longest?

Pillows made of latex often last longer than those made of other materials, such as bamboo or down. Furthermore, Dunlop’s pure latex serum makes it the most long-lasting latex on the market, making it the most durable form of latex. Comparatively speaking, the structural integrity of latex pillows is exceptionally long-lasting. If you’re searching for a pillow that will last for years and years, consider getting one manufactured from Dunlop latex.

How can you tell a quality pillow?

Checking the material is a fantastic place to begin when looking for a quality pillow. When it comes to pillows, natural latex and down can both be excellent options, but they are constructed of completely different materials, which explains why one lasts longer. If a warranty is included, you know you’re getting a high-quality cushion. In order for a corporation to offer a warranty, it must be confident that its product works. If you want a decent cushion, search for long-lasting materials and a manufacturer that is willing to stand behind their product.

Is it good to sleep without a pillow?

When you sleep on your stomach, you may find it more comfortable to sleep without a pillow. However, stomach sleeping is a bad position to sleep in and should be avoided at all costs. As a result, you should avoid sleeping on your back or stomach without a cushion, as this might induce neck stiffness. Pillows are essential for a good night’s sleep since they give support for your head and neck. As a result, while sleeping without a pillow may be convenient at first, it may create discomfort with time.

Is it better to have 1 or 2 pillows?

Even if you’d prefer to sleep with a slew of pillows under your head, you should only use one of them. You need a pillow that is thick and sturdy enough to keep your neck in a healthy position and prevent pain. For those who prefer to sleep on their stomachs, necks, or backs, there are additional pillows that can help. Body and knee pillows placed between your legs, especially if you’re a side sleeper, can help keep your upper leg from dragging your spine out of alignment, reducing stress on your back and hips.. The use of a wedge pillow can assist back sleepers maintain an inclination in their bed, improving airflow and perhaps reducing snoring.

Why do old pillows turn yellow?

To get yellow pillows, sweat is the most prevalent culprit. Sweat can leak through your pillowcase on a regular basis, and when it dries, it leaves a yellow stain. It is possible for your pillow to turn yellow even if you use a pillow protector in between the pillow and the pillowcase. It’s time to replace your pillows if they have yellow stains.

Conclusion

Replacing pillows is a necessary but dreaded chore. That doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be done, though. When purchasing a new pillow, take the time to look for a high-quality, long-lasting option. Having a pillow that is both pleasant and supportive requires regular maintenance. Keep a pillowcase on your pillows at all times and wash them every few months. Your pillow’s lifespan may be extended by following these methods, but remember: if your pillow is old and lumpy, it’s no longer beneficial to you or your night of sleep. Rest better, stay cleaner, and enjoy a more enjoyable night’s sleep by changing your pillows as often as necessary.

The talented Kiera Pritchard is here!

Kiera Pritchard’s love for sleep research was prompted by her curiosity about dreams and dreaming. Additionally, Kiera works as a personal trainer and is dedicated to helping others lead healthy lifestyles both while they sleep and while they are up. As a new member of our team, Kiera has developed a number of sleep health guides to share with our readers.